Escobar was acquired with Ben Zobrist from the Rays, giving the Athletics a replacement for Jed Lowrie. (Source: SF Gate)

Fantasy Impact: Lowrie was a productive hitter in 2013, but struggled a bit in 2014 and was let go as a free agent. Escobar will start for the Athletics and provide solid defense and league average hitting. Escobar has only hit double digit home runs three times in his eight year career and has hit .265 since moving the AL full time at the trade deadline in 2010. Furthermore, Escobar has only stolen 31 bases in eight seasons. Escobar is not worth an addition, even as a middle infielder, unless it is an extremely deep AL-only league.

The Rays have signed FA IF Asdrubal Cabrera, paving the way for a potential Ben Zobrist or Yunel Escobal deal. (Source: ESPN)

Fantasy Impact: Escobar fell out of favor with the Rays due to his inconsistent play last season and may be their first choice to move. Wherever Escobar lands he is not much of a fantasy option, except in deep leagues, due to his lack of speed or power.

Yunel Escobar News & Advice

The Nationals had their second day of full-squad workouts Friday. Second baseman Yunel Escobar and first baseman Ryan Zimmerman stood out above the rest. They were working hard at their new positions at the Nationals complex.